Ferrari files protest
Ferrari lodged a protest over what it called a new Mercedes 'trick' at the Australian GP — and the paddock is buzzing about a leaked Ferrari engine/aero upgrade video that could force an FIA review. (youtube.com) (youtube.com)
Ferrari has publicly said it will not lodge a formal protest at the Australian Grand Prix, with team principal Frédéric Vasseur arguing the priority is regulatory clarity rather than an on‑track protest. (planetf1.com ) The dispute centres on an alleged compression‑ratio loophole in the 2026 power‑unit rules that rival manufacturers claim can be exploited for extra combustion power. (grandprix.com ) Multiple manufacturer talks failed to agree alternative compliance measurements ahead of the engine homologation deadline of 1 March 2026, leaving the issue unresolved going into the season opener at Albert Park. (autosport.com ) (racingnews365.com ) Two separate clips circulating on YouTube (IDs CrWjI90vKH8 and YtwJh7_LrVE) have been shared widely in paddock channels and by technical analysis creators claiming to show elements of a Ferrari engine/aero upgrade package. (youtube.com 1) (youtube.com 2) The FIA has been asked to scrutinise the new packages — outlets report both requests for closer inspection and that the governing body has already cleared specific Ferrari aero parts such as a reported Halo winglet in recent technical rulings. (givemesport.com ) (f1oversteer.com ) Because Ferrari did not file a protest in Melbourne, any formal challenge now depends on rivals submitting documentary evidence to the FIA or on the F1 Commission pursuing a regulatory clarification or technical directive after the race. (racingnews365.com ) (autosport.com )
